Python Coding Standards and Best Practices
Python Coding Standards and Best Practices
PEP 8 is the official style guide for Python code. It provides conventions for code
layout and formatting to ensure consistency.
Indentation: Use 4 spaces per indentation level (do not use tabs).
Blank Lines: Use blank lines to separate functions, classes, and logical
sections of code within functions.
Imports:
import os
import sys
import numpy as np
import my_module
Use descriptive and meaningful names to make your code self-explanatory and
readable.
Bad: x = 10
Good: user_age = 10
Naming Conventions:
Modularize your code using functions to make it easier to test and reuse.
Example:
area = calculate_area(5, 3)
print(f"The area is {area}")
Example:
def greet(name):
"""
Return a greeting message.
Args:
name (str): The name of the user.
Returns:
str: Greeting message
"""
return f"Hello, {name}!"
Always anticipate potential errors and handle them using try-except blocks.
Example:
try:
with open("file.txt") as file:
data = file.read()
except FileNotFoundError:
print("File not found")
finally:
print("Operation completed")
Benefits of testing:
Prevents bugs
Example:
if not user_is_authenticated():
return "Access denied"
Write meaningful commit messages that explain why a change was made.